Friday, March 20, 2009

My heart is breaking. Today we learned that one of my dearest friends, Crystal, suddenly lost her husband, Mike, in the early morning. He was 36, active and healthy, with no history of illness. He unexplainably stopped breathing in the night and they were unable to revive him. They have 5 year old twins and a 6 month old baby. And none of them had the chance to say goodbye.

Mike holding our Madeline and his baby Nathan

I would do anything to bring this family together again. God had been doing an amazing work, and their story is one that brings Him glory. Crystal is a true friend who has overcome more than her share of tragedy and hardship. She understands real friendship, for good and bad. These last few months I've been on bedrest, she has faithfully picked up Olivia once a week for ballet with her girls. Afterwards, taking them home to play, and always returning her with an amazing meal in hand. I wish with all my heart she was spared this. And that the kids still had their Daddy.

Our girls with the twins

Mike was an incredible father. My husband had immense respect for the way he cherished his family. He was also charming and funny. He could bring a smile to everyone, young and old, and especially my girls. A few weeks ago, we went on a family vacation together. Afterwards, Troy and I talked about how easy and natural it was to be with their family. From the guys to the moms to the kids, it was just no work at all. And SO much fun.

Troy and Mike with all our girls

I had the privilege of spending the day with Crystal today, and her children and family. I want so badly to bless her in the way she has blessed our family. I am very honored that they allowed me in, to share in their grief and to serve them. Please pray for guidance and wisdom, as I continue to seek out the best ways to minister to them right now. I am so broken hearted and just devastated, as is my husband.

Please offer up prayers for this grieving family. And for Mike's family that have flown in from the East coast. While the hope of heaven is all that we have, somehow even that hope doesn't seem enough on this dark, first day of Spring. Jesus, please be with this family on their first night without a daddy and a husband. Meet them in their grief. Provide for their every need. Give them strength to make it to tomorrow. Amen.

Oh Rebecca,I am just getting around and I'm so sorry...5 years ago my best friend's husband was tragically killed in a car accident on his way home from a business trip...it hurt me as nothing in my life had before...I know your pain...I'll pray for them as they wade through this rough water...It just makes my heart break for them...You will comfort and bless them just by being there...

peace to you...and peace to them, the peace that surpasses ALL understanding....

Dear Rebecca,My heart breaks for this family!I can't imagine how difficult it must have been to wake up the next day with life completely changed by losing a spouse and parent. I'm sure your friendship is a tremendous blessing during this time of grieving. Thoughts and Prayers, Jen

This is a truly tragic story. My heart goes out to your friends family as well as yours. I pray that God gives you all comfort in knowing that this happened because it was part of His will. These things are always so hard for us to understand. I have experienced them myslef.

Rebecca,I am so sorry. Death is hard whenever it comes. I lost my Dad suddenly and did not have the chance for a "proper" good-bye. My heart goes out to their family. It is a good reminder of how small we are and how precious time with those we love really is.

Rebecca,I am so sorry to hear about Mike's sudden death. I am praying for all of the families involved - that the Lord will comfort each and everyone. I am praying for you too. How are you and the baby?Hugs and prayers,Amanda